YourDictionary

What does "pair off" mean?

  1. Put two persons together; also, become one of a couple, as in Jean mentally paired off her guests whenever she planned a party, or All the tennis players had to pair off for a round of doubles matches. [Late 1600s]
  2. Also, pair up. Make a pair of, match, as in I always have trouble pairing up their socks. [Early 1900s]

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